What Malibu has 250 hp?
The Malibu that carries 250 horsepower is the version equipped with the 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four engine, commonly found in model years around 2016 through 2019. This is the configuration most buyers refer to when asking which Malibu has 250 hp.
Powertrain overview
Powerful performance in the Malibu comes from a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine. In the 2016–2019 Malibu lineup, this engine produced about 250 horsepower and roughly 258 lb-ft of torque, depending on the specific calibration for a given year and trim. It was typically paired with an automatic transmission and front-wheel drive, offering a meaningful boost over the base engines while maintaining efficiency and everyday usability.
Which Malibu years offered 250 hp?
To identify Malibu models with the 250-horsepower rating, here is the key production window and configuration the figure refers to.
- 2016–2019 Chevrolet Malibu models equipped with the 2.0L turbocharged inline-four engine rated at 250 horsepower.
This 2.0L turbo setup represented the primary way to reach about 250 hp within the Malibu lineup during these years, distinguishing it from the lower-powered base engines available in other trims and earlier generations.
How to verify horsepower on a used Malibu
When shopping for a used Malibu, you can confirm the 250-hp variant by checking several sources and indicators on the car.
- Look at the vehicle’s window sticker (Monroney label) or the original specifications sheet for the engine code and horsepower rating (2.0L Turbo, 250 hp).
- Check badging on the car itself, such as “2.0T” or “2.0L Turbo” on the trunk lid or engine cover.
- Review the VIN-derived build sheet or a trusted vehicle history report for the engine option and performance specs.
If you don’t see the 2.0L Turbo branding or the 250-hp rating, the car is unlikely to be the 250-hp variant and may instead have a different engine configuration.
Other notes about the Malibu’s horsepower landscape
It is worth noting that earlier Malibu generations offered different engines and horsepower figures, and the high-performance badge seen on some GM sedans does not always carry over to the Malibu. The 250-hp figure specifically refers to the 2.0L turbo variant introduced for the mid-cycle refresh and carried through the late-2010s Malibu lineup.
Summary
In short, if you want a Malibu with about 250 horsepower, focus on the Chevrolet Malibu models from roughly 2016 to 2019 equipped with the 2.0-liter turbocharged engine. This was the primary configuration in the lineup to reach the 250-horsepower mark, and buyers can verify it through the window sticker, engine badges, or build documentation.
